KP Apothecary Circle Program Mission Statement:
To provide underrepresented, future leaders in the profession of pharmacy.
This program provides a path for students to explore the profession, and develop leadership skills, while learning Kaiser Permanente’s Values. The student is provided with access, and information on pharmacy functions, through mentor guidance, that facilitates the mentee’s growth. The Apothecary Circle Program fosters a structured learning environment as the student learns first-hand about the Inpatient, Outpatient, and Ambulatory Care Pharmacies during their multi-summer internship.
—by Nia Huggins
The Apothecary Circle Program serves to provide underrepresented undergraduate students pursuing a career in pharmacy hands-on experience. In the Apothecary Circle, students are exposed to a multitude of pharmacy-related fields and environments such as out-patient and in-patient pharmacy as well as ambulatory care pharmacy.
Apothecary interns learn which direction pharmacy is headed and how expansive the field has already grown. Students are visited by a host of guests, ranging from the deans of pharmacy schools (including Western University and USC) to pharmacy students, residents, professors, and pharmacists who specialize in industrial fields and pharmacy ownership. In addition, ACP interns also participate in peer group activities in which interviewing skills, resume building, and professionalism are reviewed and discussed. These sessions are prepared, practiced, and presented by current interns.
My experience in the Apothecary Circle Program has given me the opportunity to experience my future. I have learned about the different types of pharmacies, specialized pharmacists, and the role pharmacy serves in a hospital. Most importantly, I have learned the importance of communication. As a future pharmacist, I will be communicating with nurses, patients, doctors, and colleagues so it is important to identify the audience and communicate accordingly.
The expectation of Apothecary Circle is that students have successful entry and duration at their respective pharmacy schools. The advantage of the program is that pharmacists dedicate their summer to answering questions while offering advice and continuous support throughout the school year. In addition, students build bonds with like-minded interns who can relate to the experience. Pharmacy schools across California are aware of ACP interns, setting them apart from other applicants.
I enjoy the diversity in the workplace and the community that Kaiser Permanente pharmacists embrace. The Apothecary Circle has truly given me the tools to not only have a competitive application for pharmacy school but the experience and hands-on knowledge to succeed in school. So, if you have passion, admiration, and an interest in pharmacy, join the Apothecary Circle!
Apothecary Circles Programs Vision:
- Increase Diversity in the profession of Pharmacy
- Educate the community about the expanding roles of pharmacy in the healthcare system
- Connect students with pharmacy schools
- Provide mentoring opportunities via practical experience and leadership development
Qualifications for ACP:
GPA of 3.0 or higher
Be accepted/enrolled to a 4-year university
Submit Letter of Intent
Available full-time for 2 months of summer break
Must be available for at least 2 summers
Interview required
Deadlines:
Application Available November
Application Due in February
Contact:
Kaiser Permanente Apothecary Circle Program
Email Apothecary Circle Program